Manchester United have ‘friendship pact’ with striker already in talks with Arsenal

Viktor Gyokeres, the talented striker who has caught the attention of Europe’s elite football clubs, could be at the center of an intriguing transfer battle this summer.

With his impressive performances for Sporting CP, the Swedish forward is now the subject of intense speculation linking him to Premier League giants, Manchester United and Arsenal. Adding to the complexity of this chase is the so-called “friendship pact” between Viktor Gyokeres and his current coach, Ruben Amorim, which could prove pivotal in this transfer saga.

Gyokeres’ Meteoric Rise Under Ruben Amorim at Sporting CP

Since joining Sporting CP in 2023, Viktor Gyokeres has undergone a transformation, evolving into one of the most prolific strikers in Europe. Prior to his move to Portugal, Viktor Gyokeres had never played top-tier football, but his time under Amorim has seen him develop into a goal-scoring machine. With an outstanding record of 85 goals in 92 appearances across all competitions, Viktor Gyokeres has firmly established himself as one of the brightest talents on the continent.

What makes Viktor Gyokeres’ rise even more remarkable is the fact that, at just 25 years old, he’s already been linked with some of the biggest clubs in world football. His performances have been impossible to ignore, and top clubs from across Europe are now circling, eager to secure his services. Notably, Premier League sides Manchester United and Arsenal have emerged as frontrunners in the race to sign the striker.

Arsenal’s Growing Interest in Viktor Gyokeres: A New Dynamic

As reports suggest, Arsenal has begun to show serious interest in Viktor Gyokeres following the appointment of Andrea Berta as the club’s new sporting director. Berta’s arrival at the Emirates has already sparked action, with the Italian chief reportedly engaging with Gyokeres’ representatives and making strides toward finalizing a deal. The Gunners’ interest in the forward comes at a time when they are looking to strengthen their attacking options, and Gyokeres fits the profile of the type of player they wish to pursue.

Sky Sport in Switzerland claims that Arsenal has moved quickly since Berta’s appointment, and they are already in talks with Viktor Gyokeres’ camp. Senior officials at Arsenal are said to have given Berta the green light in terms of financing any potential move, which suggests that the Gunners are serious about securing a deal this summer. It’s clear that the North London club sees Gyokeres as an exciting prospect who can add firepower to their already impressive attacking lineup.

However, this growing interest from Arsenal could complicate matters for Manchester United, who have also been in the hunt for the striker. While the financial clout of Arsenal is undoubtedly appealing, the relationship between Viktor Gyokeres and Amorim could prove decisive in his future destination.

The ‘Friendship Pact’ with Ruben Amorim: Can Manchester United Benefit?

One of the key factors in Manchester United’s pursuit of Gyokeres is his connection with Ruben Amorim, the man who helped him blossom into one of Europe’s top strikers. The “friendship pact” between the two is said to be a significant element in the negotiations. According to multiple sources, Gyokeres has already given his word to Amorim that he will follow him to Old Trafford this summer. This promise is said to be based on a strong personal relationship and mutual respect between player and coach.

For Manchester United, this connection could be a major advantage. Amorim, who took charge at Sporting CP in 2020, has built a reputation as one of the most promising young coaches in Europe. His tactical acumen and ability to nurture young talent have made him highly sought after, and his presence at Old Trafford could be an attractive proposition for Viktor Gyokeres.

In theory, this “friendship pact” should give Manchester United the edge in the race for Viktor Gyokeres, particularly given that Amorim is now the manager at the club. However, as we know, football transfers are rarely straightforward, and Viktor Gyokeres’ move will depend on several factors beyond personal relationships.

Manchester United’s European Struggles: A Potential Obstacle?

One of the significant hurdles in Manchester United’s pursuit of Gyokeres is their uncertain future in European competitions. With the club struggling to secure a Champions League spot through their league position, they will likely need to win the Europa League to guarantee a place in Europe’s premier competition next season.

This is a critical factor for any player contemplating a move to Old Trafford, as the lure of European football remains a powerful draw. While Manchester United remains one of the most prestigious clubs in Europe, their absence from the Champions League could weaken their appeal to top-tier talents like Gyokeres.

If Manchester United fails to secure a top-four finish or win the Europa League, their ability to offer Gyokeres a chance to play at the highest level could be compromised. This, in turn, could make the prospect of joining Arsenal, who are firmly in the hunt for a Champions League spot, more attractive.

Alternatives to Viktor Gyokeres: Manchester United’s Backup Options

While Gyokeres remains a top priority for Manchester United, the club is also considering other options in their search for a new striker. Among the names linked with a move to Old Trafford are Hugo Ekitike and Liam Delap, two young talents who have the potential to develop into long-term solutions for the club’s attacking needs.

Ekitike, who currently plays for Paris Saint-Germain, has been one of the most promising young strikers in Europe. The 22-year-old has shown glimpses of his potential in Ligue 1 and could be an ideal addition to Manchester United’s squad. Ekitike himself has expressed his admiration for United, having grown up as a fan of the club, which could make a move to Old Trafford appealing.

Similarly, Liam Delap, currently at Manchester City, has also been linked with a move to United. The young forward is highly rated and could offer United a more affordable option compared to Viktor Gyokeres. However, Delap’s future at City remains uncertain, especially with the club facing the prospect of relegation with Ipswich Town. This could lead to a move away from City, and United may look to capitalize on this opportunity to secure the striker’s signature.

The Transfer Saga Continues: Who Will Land Viktor Gyokeres?

As the summer transfer window approaches, Viktor Gyokeres‘ future remains one of the most eagerly anticipated stories in European football. While Manchester United holds a potential advantage due to Amorim’s influence and the “friendship pact,” Arsenal’s growing interest and their ability to offer Champions League football could sway the decision in their favor.

Ultimately, Gyokeres’ move will depend on several factors, including the financial terms of the deal, the club’s ambitions, and the player’s desire to continue working under Amorim. With both Manchester United and Arsenal keen to secure his signature, this summer could see one of the most exciting transfer battles unfold in the Premier League.

Gyokeres’ next move could have a significant impact on the landscape of European football, and whichever club manages to sign him will be adding one of the most exciting young strikers in the game today. As the race heats up, it’s clear that the future of Viktor Gyokeres will be one of the most closely watched transfer stories of the summer.